Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports are appropriate for students who are not able to use speech as their primary mode of communication to access the curriculum, either due to cognitive/language deficits or a physical impairment. AAC is within the scope of practice of all speech-language pathologists, so all direct services involving AAC are provided by the site SLP. When the site team needs support in choosing and implementing an AAC system, they can contact the AAC Specialists for consultation. The AAC Specialists consult district-wide to classrooms and SLPs as well as providing group trainings and distance learning via the ATAAC website.

Although AAC is generally considered to be “under the umbrella” of Assistive Technology, they are separate services within MDUSD. The AT Specialist provides equipment and consultation to help students access learning, while the AAC Specialists provide equipment and consultation to help students communicate.